Christmas with 100+ Children

Take all the excitement, and anticipation that your kids bring to the Christmas season and then multiply it by 50; that's what Christmas was like at Door of Faith. The amount of people that went out of their way to make sure the kids of DOFO had a wonderful Christmas was innumerable. From the groups that came by with presents to the "older siblings" that purchased gifts on behalf of sponsors to the people that seem to show up out of nowhere with gifts. I was blown away as the people that were return visitors to some that were here for the fist time with gifts. One family I met just spontaneously drove from L.A. with the trunk of their car filled, packed with presents to give out in Mexico. When I asked them how they heard of Door of Faith, they said a taxi driver game them directions and sent them here! I also had the priveledge of meeting a couple that organizes and displays at their church all the kids at Door of Faith so that people can sponsor kids for Christmas, 12th Day and all of the birthdays. We even had a group of Russian believers come and Christmas carol for the kids, pray over them and leave them with bags of treats. My view of how many people it takes to keep this place going has definetly been expanded.

On Christmas morning, after breakfast, the children were all gathered in a circle of picnic tables. Each dorm waited at their table and waited for their name to be called. Next a black bag filled with presents was brought to each child. When DJ gave the word, the kids simutaneously began opening their gifts. I've never seen anything like it. They loved everything they received, even clothes, because they were new clothes and new shoes and not "hand-me-downs". It was the job of all the adults present to quickly write the owners names on the gifts so everything went to it's proper owner.

When all the gifts had been open, the sound of the orphanage went from crazy loud to quite smiles and preoccupation with their new things. Still to this day the kids gather all over the playground with their new toys and play. It's a beautiful sight to behold.

Groups are still coming for a day here or there. Some stay a little longer. It's been great weather too. This last week of Christmas break the kids have had skits and singing and games and crafts .....and lots of smiles. I can see how orphans have a special place in God's heart. This has been an incredible couple of weeks.

Cristo Vive

Today started off with a change of plans. I was going to go to the states to pick up a family in the states and bring them to DOFO but they found a ride. I was going to purchase some gifts in the states, but since I wasn't going to go the family that I was going to pick up offered to make the purchase for me.

Later in the day, our orphanage and another orphanage were the guests at the local restaurant, La Fonda's. It's right on the beach and they served an all you can eat buffet. I was so impressed with their generosity. The economy has really effected their business and at times I wondered if they were going to have to close thier doors. Yet, today they had clowns and a buffet for 2 orphanages. It was pretty amazing. The clown played lots of games with the kids and they were rewarded with the choice of a dollar or prize for each time they won.

This evening, was our Christmas Talent Show. It ranged from 4 and 5 year old dressed up as dancing reingdeer, to different dorms singing, to dramas and finished with some wrap. The moment that was precious to me was when the little boys dorm was going to sing. One of the boys, Mickey, doesn't speak more than a few words. So, his part was to hold the microphone for the kids to sing into. It was precious. He took his job seriously and was glad to have a way to participate.

After most of the Talent Show was finished, we went to the dining room for tamales, turkey, mashed potatoes, beans and pasta salad followed with some bonuelos for desert. It was great. What a treat for us. Then it was back to the chapel to hear the rest of the Talent Show. As the kids were entering, the little boys were coming up to the mic to say something because a live mic is just hard for little boys to resist. They ranged in age from about 4 to 6 and one of the boys ran up to the mic and began to say over and over "Cristo vive! Cristo vive!" I could think of a lot of things that a little boy might say in the mic, but that caught me by surprise.

What a wonderful thought, to think, that just maybe a little boy may never had known that Christ lives had he not grown up in an orphanage. Makes me think how the scriptures declare that God's plan for us is good, not to harm us, but to give us a future and a hope.

Sunday's Celebration

It's a tradition at the church we're at, Christiano Templo Elim, to celebrate the previous week's birthdays in the Sunday service. Right after the sermon and before the singing, all the children enter the service and everyone is asked if they've recently had a birthday to come to the front. I walked down with my buddy Leonardo who shares the same birthday as me and we were greeted with many hugs from the congregation. Most of them came from the children of the orphanage. I think it was the record for most hugs in one day! It was great!

When we got home, there was a group of Americans that were preparing pizza for the children. They also came with their own Santa and presents to pass out to the children. It was a pretty exciting afternoon.

In the evening Lynette, six teen girls from DOFO and myself joined with some others from our church to go Tijuana. Our pastor's son pastors a church in Tijuana and we were invited to lead worship for their Christmas celebration. It was quite the evening. After the sermon, about 8:30pm we were served a wonderful Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

Everyone is so nice wherever we go. I'm hugged and kissed on the cheek everywhere I go it seems. I thought about this tradition...the hug and kiss. To some it may seem a little awkward, but if you think about it, when someone greets you with a hug and kiss, you're pretty sure that things are right between you and that individual. I know that if I was holding a grudge with someone, the last thing I could do would be give them a hug and kiss. It's like it's the test to prove that everything is good between two individuals.

Getting Busy Preparing for Christmas

Today is my birthday. When got up my sons wished me a happy birthday and proceeded to give me gifts. They were very thoughtful and had to be very resourceful due to our living in Mexico. It takes a little creativity and planning to get someone a gift. I know this very well because yesterday I was in the states finishing a little Christmas shopping.

Today was also the birthday of my little amigo Leonardo. Because we share the same birthday, and we arrived here at Door of Faith close to the same time, Leonardo holds a special place in my heart. I had bought him a hot wheel and some race track for his birthday. When I went to give it to him, I noticed that his mother, grandmother and a man came to visit him. I hesitated interrupting their family time, but I was encouraged to go ahead and present my gift. His mother welcomed me and served my some flan that she brought for his birthday. It was nice, happy and sad all at the same time. I don't know all the reasons that the different children are at Door of Faith. I just see the behavior of the children and can usually guess. Today, though, I would have given anything for the thoughts of Leonardo as he sat with his family in the orphanage celebrating his birthday.

At lunch today, Oscar, a boy that I sponsor, came up to me and gave me a great big hug and wished me a Happy Birthday in English. He smiled and said "Today is your birthday?" I told him yes and then he replied that it was also his sister's birthday today, but that she lived at another orphanage. Again, I would have given anything for this little boys thoughts of being apart from his sister on her birthday. I'm told, however, that he does get to see her regularly on Sundays at church.

The chiropractor returned today! I felt like it was my birthday present from God. I love chiropractic care. We also had a group from in the states and another group that were Russian. They sang Russian Christmas carols and other worship songs while the children ate their lunch. Then they prayed over the children before they left. Wish you could have heard these people sing. It made me think that all the singing of the Lord Jesus that for many years was not allowed in their country was now bursting out in great freedom. I don't think I've ever heard such strong voices, especially the men's voices.

At dinner tonight, there were a few of us at the front of the dining hall with birthday cakes in front of us. All the recent December birthdays were lined up and all the children sang "Es la son de Manyanitas" (I have no idea if that's even close to the correct spelling.) It's the song they sing for birthdays. It was very sweet.

Tyler asked me this evening if I had had a good birthday. I told him yes. I remember for many years dreaming of being able to serve in an orphanage and never thinking it would happen. And here I am celebrating my birthday at an orphanage. God truly does give us the desires of our heart.

There's Music in the Air!

Yesterday, there was a knock on my door about 7:20 a.m. One of the girls here asked me in Spanish if I had a flute that she could take to school. She was leaving in about 10 minutes. I asked her to repeat her request because I thought it was odd. But I soon learned that she was requesting a recorder. Still a strange request at 7:20 a.m., but I happened to have salvaged 2 recorders I had found in the music room when I first arrived here in September. I ran in my house and showed her what I had and she smiled as though it was exactly what she was looking for.

Later that evening, I heard the beginnings of the Christmas song "Silent Night". I found the girl and told her that I used to teach music in the states and that I thought she was doing a good job. Later at dinner, this same girl ran up to me and asked me in English "Raben, will you teach me to play the flouta?" I told I would be glad to and she responded, "Oh thank you!" and ran off.

Maybe, just maybe the doors of teaching music here are beginning to open. We'll see.

Missed the Exit

Today, as my new friend Becca and I were coming back from Rosarito, we were so busy about talking about Jesus, the Church, how God was working in us and through us...well be missed the exit to La Mision. We started noticing the how beautiful the ocean was as we kept driving and then I turned to Becca and said..."Did I go too far?" She laughed and said she didn't remember seeing all the beautiful views of the ocean, at least not seeing these particular views. Well, we ended up in Ensenada and found our way back to the orphanage.

If any of you know me well, I had to overcome a lot of fear just to drive to Mexico. Today I had to laugh at God's goodness to me. It was neat to see that fear of driving around Mexico gone. He's brought me so far and because He's faithful, I look forward to the next "Faith Trip".

Prayer Changes Things, Mostly Me

After meeting with some of the gals that volunteer here at Door of Faith, we decided that we would fast and pray today for the orphanage, staff, and concerns of friends nearby. I am very humbled to say that these young ladies love God's word and have a devotional life that surpassed what I had imagined. We also discovered that we all love Oswald Chamber's "My Utmost For His Highest". It was like being united with kindred spirits:)

It's been so cold here that I've had a difficult time rolling out of bed at 6:00 a.m. as I had started 2 months ago. So, I decided if I could get myself out on a prayer walk, the cold would keep me alert enough to pray. Wow! It made all the difference in the world. I could pray or sing as loud as I wanted. It was just me and Jesus walking around the campus of the orphanage.

As the ladies had agreed in prayer that we would avail ourselves to what God had for us, His plan began to unfold. We had discussed that "being" was the goal and "doing" was not. We purposed that we were going to acknowledge the LORD throughout the day and listen for His direction.

Just before lunch time, a man came to the orphanage and asked Lynette if he could have something to eat. It was apparent that he had been drinking alcohol, but it was also apparent that he was very broken in spirit. He had a huge infection in one of his legs, he hadn't eaten for a few days and was asking for help. We called one of our friends that runs the clinic at the church and she agreed to meet us at the clinic that afternoon.

Three of us gave the man, Veronico, a ride to what he called home. It was an old feed store that was out of business. He had a mattress on the floor and that was it. He had no place to store food, no water, no heat, no electricity ; all he had was a mattress.

When we went that afternoon to pick up Veronico he was not in his home. We found him at a street market. He had been drinking again and he was dancing in the streets. When we talked to him later about how we found him, he said that drinking made the pain go away so he could be happy and pain free.

We took him to the clinic to have our friend look at his leg. It was full of infection. He told us that he knew Jesus was his Savior. He told us how he knew that Christ died for him on the cross for forgiveness of his sins. He also told us that he was ashamed and wanted to stop drinking, but then his leg hurt when he stopped drinking. After the doctor gave him some medical attention and explained to him that he was unable to stop his drinking on his own, he began to cry. She told him about the Christian rehab nearby where he could receive help. We prayed for Veronico and then he began to cry out to God.

I've never experienced anything like today before. Here was someone that had at one time trusted in Jesus for forgiveness of sins, yet he had returned to a very painful existence. All I could conclude from this was how much we need each other in the body of Christ. All of us are hurting during sometime in our lives. What if we had no one to look in on us or encourage us in our walk with God? Or, what if we thought we could follow Christ all on our own?

We need each other. We need each other to encourage our walk with God through prayer and fellowship. Serving and praying alone doesn't cut it. We were designed to serve God together.

Thanksgiving

We had Thanksgiving in the states at my sister's home. There is no celebration of Thanksgiving in Mexico, so it was wonderful to come together with family and friends. I can't remember the last time that I was so particularly grateful for green beans, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and turkey. It was a nice treat to break away from beans, rice and tortillas.

When we returned to Mexico, our friends Janet and Mary also came. It was nice to have them with us here. On Saturday, they took the boys to Ensenada to help with an outreach to kids. I stayed back and signed hundreds of Christmas cards from DOFO and helped a little with preparing turkey for today's meal after the service. I'm not sure for how long, but it's a tradition for the Americans to serve a Thanksgiving meal after church the Sunday after Thanksgiving following the Sunday morning service. It was wonderful!

Muchos Orfanatorios

Today we toured 4 orphanages and Sordo Mundo, school for the deaf. It was very eye opening for me. There is a great need in most of the places we visited. If they had plenty of facilities then they lacked help to maintain. If they had smaller facilities they seemed far away and unseen by most. I'm told that they way most of these orphanages receive the help they need is mostly by word of mouth.

Some of the orphanages stood out to me as strong in certain areas because of the giftedness of the staff. For instance, farming and orchards were at some to help with the orphanage as well as passing on the food to others. Others seemed to be run on resourcefulness and availability. I was mostly struck with the type of existance that was taking place. With so little at some, it seemed that it was all about school, laundry and cooking.

It's also been great to see how Door of Faith encourages the neighboring orphanages with sending groups to help out with projects or just visit and check in with how things are going. Sounds like "open handed" leadership to me. Wonder where I've seen that before;)

It's great to see what God is not only accomplishing in me, but what he's accomplishing in the lives of others. It seems that those that have very little are giving all they have to give and very resourceful. It made me think of the widow that gave her last coin and others gave a lot, but maybe not all they had. Still others gave what they had for their own kids as well as other orphanages.

Breakfast in Tijuana

This morning we left at 5:00 a.m. to head out to Tijuana. There's a community the lives on a retired dump of Tijuana. It's quite a sight to behold. Trash is sticking out of the ground and walls all around. But it is the home of many families with children. In this community there is a church making a difference. As long as financial support comes in, they serve breakfast at 7am 5 days a week to the children so they can have a good meal before they start school. For some, I'm told it's possibly their only meal of the day.

After we finished serving over 125 kids breakfast, (many of them seconds and thirds), we headed to an orphanage in the area that had recently been moved to a new location. About 2 weeks ago, it seems the Mexican government wanted the building of this orphanage for it's own purposes, so the orphanage needed to relocate. God is good. They relocated to an old hotel right next to the ocean. It's being converted into an orphanage right now, but already we saw that the bedrooms are coming together quite nicely. This new orphanage comes with an indoor swimming pool, ocean view and one of the more affluent neighborhoods in Tijuana. It was great to see another ministry to children. It was great to see how the LORD provided. God is awesome.

John Piper Says it Well

"The great incentive for throwing our lives into the cause of missions is the 10,000 - percent return on the investment." John Piper

This statement says it all for me in regards to missions. I've heard DJ at Door of Faith put it as the reason that he and Lynette do what they do is because they are incredibly selfish. It is not a bad thing to pursue joy, fulfillment or reward. Jesus tells us to. We just need to pursue those things in Him. That's where everlasting joy, true fulfillment and great reward are found.

The other reason I love this statement of John Piper is because I want by sons to know this with all their heart. I want them to store up treasures in heaven. If they start now, so great will be their reward.

I will never forget when my family was gathered around my father just as he was about to leave this world and step into the presence of the LORD. I remember my mother saying to him.."Mel, it's okay to go. Go and get your reward." Talk about leaving an impression on my mind. If I really believe that I will be rewarded in heaven for the investments I make here in this life, and I do, then what joy I should be experiencing now even if it's in light of what is yet to come.

Full and Great Weekend

Let's see, David hosted a group that came to serve this weekend. He really rose to the occasion and I had numerous "proud mom" moments. It's very rewarding to have someone come up to you and ask "Do you know David? I was told he could help me." I loved saying "Why yes I do know David. He's my son." Just can't beat that!

Then there's Tyler my second incredible son. He helped me prepare a house for some first time guests coming this weekend to check out bringing their youth group down in February. He's finishing his school work early as is David. Tyler's motivation to finish early is to learn more about computers. He's been helping one of the American volunteers work on computers here at Door of Faith and even serving off campus with computers.

I was serving by welcoming groups, hosting groups, organizing one of our rooms in preparation for Christmas, and teaching kids to read. While doing this, God blessed us on Saturday by sending two chiropractors to work on as many staff and children as possible. I was way overdue. It was wonderful!

Today was a wonderful service at church which included the welcoming home of team that had gone on mission in Sinaloa, Mexico. After returning from our Sunday celebration, Tyler and I enjoyed some "one on one" at the nearby beach. It was wonderful to have this opportunity with Ty; listening to his heart and discussing the soon celebration of his 13th birthday.

Yesterday, the little boy that was expecting a visit from his mother was not disappointed. It was so good to him be able to visit with her. I'm told that very few of the children get actual visits from their parents, so it was especially nice to see. As a parent, if your child has been placed in the orphanage, you must go to court and get papers allowing you to visit for each time you would like to see your child. There's no popping in whenever you feel like it.

Today, the church service attendance was noticeably lower. A team of 29 people are in Sinaloa, Mexico on a missions trip. We had an American guest speaker, Anthony from Apple Valley, with us this morning. He reminded us about the importance of prayer and the story of Cornelius in Acts 10. Cornelius was a man of prayer, quick to listen and quick to obey. That's how I want to live.

"Cornelius was a devout, God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generously to the poor and prayed regularly to God. One afternoon about three o'clock, he had a vision in which he saw an angel of God coming toward him. "
Cornelious!" the angel said. Cornelius stared at him in terror. "What is it, sir? he asked the angel.
And the angel replied, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have been received by God as an offering!" Acts 10:2-4

Last night it rained and guess who forgot to bring in the clothes off the clothes line? I've never had to line dry my clothes before coming here. It's kind of a nice way for me to start my day when it's sunny. Not quite sure what the plan is when it rains. The other thing we quickly learned about the effects of rain down here is that when you have tile floors inside and mud and gravel outside...well you can guess the rest.

As the day progressed, one of our dorm parents, Raul, came by and gave my dog an injection for her allergies. Later, I discovered I had lost gas for my oven and water heater. Within the hour I mentioned it one of the men that serves here, Julian, had it fixed. While that was being done, I went out to the patio and worked with some of the little boys on their reading. I can't get over how eager they are to learn.

One of the little boys here has been telling me all week that his mother is coming to visit him on Saturday. He wants me to take a picture of her for him. I hope she comes and I hope I'm able to meet her and take her picture. I have no idea why her children are here. It could be for so many different reasons.

Living By Faith

Average day. (Whatever that's supposed to mean.) Laundry, homeschool, teaching kids to read, hugs, smiles and pushing kids on swings. Almost sounds like the lyrics to a song I would write. If I looked at those same task with eyes of faith the list of my actions today might look differently. It might look more like praying and listening to God early in the morning as I hang my clothes on the line, influencing and guiding my children in their education, study of Gods Word and enjoying my children, teaching children to read so that some day they will be able to read God's Word for themselves, and showing the tangible love of God. Some may say that's over spiritualizing, but is it really?

I just had an interesting conversation with a missionary here in Mexico. We were talking about what the balance between responsibility and faith looks like. If we are living by faith, then what are our responsibilities? We want to whole-heartedly say "my sole responsibility is to obey God." Yet our culture, our society, wants us to predict the future and say when, where and how are we going to be next year. Most make it sound like it the responsible thing to do. Plan for the future. Plan to have this or that paid off by....or what job do you have lined up when you're finished with what you're doing.

I find that if I voice what I even think I may be doing in the future, that it has a way of guiding my decision making. I start to fulfill my own prophesy so to speak. I so want to live a life that pleases God first and not just by what I do, but by who I am in and through Him. I want to live and walk in such obedience that to say no to something is just as obedient as it is to say yes.

I'm finding that trusting God has been taken to a whole different level. My challenge is to stay spiritually disciplined without keeping a spiritual routine. Each day is different here. I haven't seen two days alike. Even the roosters don't crow at the same time every morning!

Learning to comprehend a new language is challenging, but not a bad thing. It's teaching me to be a better listener. Maybe it will help me be a better listener to what God is saying to me.

These are my thoughts for today. Looking forward to tomorrow because I know the One who gives me tomorrow with all of it's designed purpose.

Preparing Christmas Info. For Sponsors

We've been busy beavers preparing information for sponsors. Not only does all the information have to be updated on each child, but Lynette makes sure that the pictures of each kid are perfect. On top of that we've been making labels with information on each child, labels for each letter of course and then sorting all the kids pictures to get them off to churches and schools that would like to sponsor a child for Christmas. Whew...It's easy to forget all the work that goes into a mailing, especially when you want it to be as personal as possible.

After the mailing was prepared, Tyler and I took a trip to the flea market across from the church. We shared a delicious pizza, bought some headsets for $2.50 and a few other odds and ends and then we tried a slurpee type drink called Tejuino de nieve. It has kind of a lime with salt taste and it's very bright green. Had to try one.

The next thing I'm looking into is a way to keep warm at night. Since there's no central heating and we have concrete walls for our house, it's getting very cold at night. I'm told this is just the beginning and to prepare for December.

Things We Take For Granted

Today we celebrated our 32nd anniversary at Templo Christiano Elim. The service was packed. There was great fellowship during and after the service. It was a great time of sharing what God had done and is continuing to do in LaMision. We were also reminded about the privilege it is to be able to gather in large numbers when many of our brothers in sister in Christ living in other countries are being persecuted for gathering such as we did today. I was reminded not to take the assembling of ourselves in the name of Christ for granted.

Later this afternoon, one of the children in the orphanage asked me to please teach him how to read. I assumed that since he was bright, happy, clothed, fed and safe that he naturally could read too. I gathered some simple books and sat with him. We went over sounds and words together. In just a few minutes I had 4 or 5 other boys wanting to learn to read. The boys that had come to the orphanage as older kids probably had not gone to school and were at the same level as the 5 year old kids that had come to the orphanage as babies and had started school this year. Never had I encountered so much eagerness to learn.

I am learning that I take more for granted than I ever thought I had. I am also learning that most of us have more to give than we ever thought. If we sat down and wrote out everything we know how to do and try to pin point when and how we learned how to do it maybe our eyes would be opened to the great need to pass on what we have learned. A simple thing like the ability to write, read, tie a shoe, to show love and kindness, are things that have been taught. Taught by actions for some, but nevertheless they were taught.

God has blessed us to bless others. Give it all away and watch how quickly you are blessed again.

Another Week

This week flew by, in Mexico time none the less. Tonight we had our 3rd evening of celebrating our 32nd anniversary of Templo Christiano Elim. This is the church that we attend. Tonight we had lots of music and the children put on a play about the story "The Tale of Three Trees". It was very well done. There's some very talented people in this church.

I'm also told today that we set our clocks back an hour tonight. This means for 2 weeks the U.S. and Mexico will be off an hour. Then when the U.S. changes their time we'll be the same again. Crazy how it all works.

Starting to feel more at home here. Love the people and the children. Feeling connected after feeling like there are so many I don't know.

Everyone at church calls me Sister. I kind of like it. It makes me feel a part of the family down here. We had our second of 4 services tonight. We are celebrating 32 years of this present church being in existence.

The Ministry of Presence

Saturday, was an interesting day. Many children and staff have been sick and DJ was visiting our home church in the states. It was time for the Schmidt family to jump in and "take it up a notch" as my friend Mary likes to say.

David helped one of the groups with putting in a sidewalk for one of staff to have better wheelchair accessibility. Tyler was busy retrieving things for various adults and running messages and I tried to fill in wherever needed.

By the evening I had to decide whether to stay at the orphanage or go to the church service. I was torn. I emailed my sister to pray for direction with me. I made the decision to go to the service and leave the boys to help Lynette back at the orphanage. She still was feeling ill and usually would be on the worship team at church.

When I got to the service, I really enjoyed it. There was a teaching given by a guest speaker and at the end I was asked to play my sax with the Pastor's daughter, Sophia, at the piano/ keyboard. There I was playing a song I hadn't ever heard before, making myself available and asking God to use me. A call to receive Christ as Savior was given. Many came, but one person in particular caught my attention. Her name is Heidi.

The previous week I had gone to a baby shower for Heidi that was given by the missionary Physician that has a clinic at the local church. Sarah (the missionary) had invited the ladies on staff at the orphanage and the ladies at church to help her throw a surprise baby shower for Heidi. Heidi had absolutely nothing to care for a baby and no family. I went mostly to keep myself involved and open to how God might use me even though I had no way of really sharing my faith by "words". God had another plan.

I attended with no gift. Sarah brought extra and told Heidi that one of her extra gifts were from me. That was very humbling, but I had no money to purchase a gift. But that wasn't important to Sarah. She just wanted Heidi to have a good representation of people who loved God and wanted Heidi to see the love of God showed to her through us.

Heidi was very moved that we would throw her a baby shower. She received more gifts than I have ever seen at one baby shower. Once again I was struck by the generosity and hospitality of the people of Baja. It was all about helping Heidi.

Getting back to Saturday night's church service. Heidi was one of the people who came forward to receive Christ. Though I was not able to communicate with my words the love of God to her, I was able to attend a baby shower, smile and write a note of encouragement to her that someone else would later interpret.

Maybe Heidi would have come to know Jesus even if I had not been at the baby shower. But I learned that God works through relationship, smiles and presence. Because Jesus lives in me, Jesus attended a baby shower last Saturday night. He speaks the universal language of love.

Good Day Shared by All

There's a wonderful group down here serving for a few days. They've come with eyes to see needs and laborers and money to meet the needs. They are very other focused. They realize that when we are blessed it is so God can use us to bless others.

Yesterday, I made my first run to Rosarito as the driver. I went with a few young people that new how to get there and back. I was asked to buy food for the orphanage. I was given a list of things to buy and the money to purchase it with. What I didn't realize was some of the items that I was purchasing was due to the orphanage being completely out. Beans, sugar and a few items needed to be purchased right away. Yet, I sensed no panic when asked to make the trip

The group that's staying here right now, happened to call yesterday to find out what we might need. When they arrived today, they brought an abundance of things we needed. They brought it to meet our needs and not to make them look good or feel good. It was clear they were sent by the Lord once again showing His faithfulness to provide.

It's been a good day. I've seen my boys serving and getting involved with the groups that are down here. I am amazed at God's goodness at surrounding my boys with men who are full of the love of God and the word of God.

My Spanish is getting better. The boys are loving their Spanish class that they just started in school. Hopefully we'll keep improving until we're all fluent.

The one funny thing that did happen today was that David was mistaken for an orphane by one the guys of the group that's visiting. They asked him a question and he pretended not to understand English. It was hilarious to see.

Things I've Learned in Mexico So Far

• The Holy Spirit speaks every language.
• The saxophone can be played in every language.
• God is faithful to bring numerous godly men into the lives of my young men.
• You haven't failed if you're willing, available, and a little adventurous.
• Fellowship is extremely important, even if you can't speak the language, there's much to be said about the ministry of presence.
• Jello and a good Bible story in Spanish is a great way to a little boys heart.
• Kids go on Face Book that are not 13 years old yet.
• "Tu tienes permiso?" are important words to know if you're going to live at an orphanage.
• Not all roads lead to heaven, but the main one will take you to Tijuana.
• When making purchases at the flea market make sure that the sellers use a calculator to make correct conversions of pesos and dollars.
• You can purchase major dangerous explosive fireworks.
• Tile floors are much more suitable for raising boys and having pets.
• "No" to a kid at the orphanage many times translates as "Well if you keep asking like a 100 times more, smile, and say please then yes."
• I do not get cell phone service when my phone is in my house, but it works just fine inside the church building during services.
• You can find strawberry jam at Walmart in Rosarito.
• Lots of people from my home church like to Face Book.
• Some people give out of seeing a need in others. Others give because of their own need to give.
• Cats here are very determined to get inside your house despite the fact that you have a dog.
• Conejo is rabbitt in Spanish.

Most of all, I've learned that if you value a child, show them love and invest in them, they will smile, grow and have much joy despite some terrible circumstances that my have placed them in an orphanage.

A Sunday at Door of Faith

Today, I was up early, 6:00 am in the kitchen. We were hosting a group from Anaheim Vineyard and they were preparing breakfast for the kids in the orphanage. I was there to observe how that is done. I'm learning where things are kept in the kitchen and how to set a the tables for 100 kids of various ages. I'm loving the learning of it all. I have to grab every opportunity that presents itself because it could be a while between groups coming down. Experience is my best teacher.

After we finished breakfast I went back home to get ready for our church service. Now that I've started playing my sax on the worship team I come to church at 9am and the service starts at 10am. When the service started, the pastor wasn't being interpreted. As the service went on it seemed that more Americans started entering the service. A few American guests came late and the pastor stopped and graciously welcomed them. Then he asked DJ to come and interpret what he was preaching. That made it nice for David and me. Tyler went to help out with the little kids. We're thinking it will help him pick up Spanish and also be way for Ty to help out on Sundays.

After the service I typed a questionaire for the kids in the orphanage. Lynette is trying to meet a deadline with needed info. on each kid in the orphanage so I told her I would start interviewing the kids for her to help get her a running start. It was fun for me and good for me to practice my Spanish and it helped me get better acquainted with the kids.

After interviewing about 25 kids, I came in and took a little nap. The early morning was catching up with me and I wanted to be rested before I went back to the church for another worship rehearsal. We're averaging 2 or 3 rehearsals a week right now because we're preparing for a big celebration of the church's anniversary.

God's Smuggler

Yesterday, I volunteered to go into the states to pick up some milk and a few things. I knew I needed to jump in as soon as possible and take advantage of the of the experience of some of the volunteers while I have the chance. Turned out to be very adventurous. I thought I would be going to Costco and picking up some milk and a few food items. No, no, no. I followed my neighbor at the orphanage,Jarilyn in my van. With me was a gal named Jennifer that 's a nurse and volunteers at clinic down here. Anyway, first we go to a restaurant. We knocked on the back door, walked into their walk in refrigerator and picked up 15 gallons of milk. Next, we drove to a park where some Christians met us and filled our vehicles with huge bags of rice, beans, powdered milk, and boxes of potatoes. We picked up supplies for two other orphanages besides. Then a lady comes up to me and ask if I would find the house in the picture she is showing me. She says that is located on the same road as the orphanage. She asked if we could go to this house and tell them that a team of people bringing them food on November 7th. They have no address or phone so this was the only way to get word to them. (Very missionary:) Next we drive all of our food to the storage unit in Chula Vista because we're told to bring just a few items back over into Mexico. Then two guys from the orphanage show up at the storage unit to tell us that they came from two different border crossings to find out which would be the best one for us to cross. One border was only allowing very few items to come over with a single lane to wait in. The other border seems to have many lanes open and letting more items through. Then the guys from the orphanage proceed to tell us that we can take lots of things over because we are Americans and they were confident that we wouldn't get pulled over. They did however, tell us to get our cars washed so that the border wouldn't be suspicious of us coming from Mexico. They told us that we need to go in through Tecate which one of us had ever gone before. We called DJ after we stop for lunch and he says he would feel better if I went back to the storage unit and lightened my load for traveling. They were very concerned about me getting pulled over in my van for bringing so much food over. Apparently, the rules change, but as we understood it today, we should only be bringing $50 worth of food per person in the vehicle. So after we got the van load made lighter, we got gas for the cars and did not get them washed as suggested. We headed towards Tecate and crossed over with no problems whatsoever,except that we lost the friend that we were following and her cell phone quit working. So, Jennifer in my car said just keep going south and west until we find something familiar. We did and we made it back. When we got back our friend that was lost was already back too! I felt like God's smuggler.

No Regrets

Today marks the end of our 2nd week here at Door of Faith. Our Spanish is coming. David is learning important things like how to say "Sponge Bob Square Pants" is Spanish. He's very popular with the kids and the little ones love to hitch a ride on his back or play soccer with him. Tyler's newest phrase is "No mas por favor". He does better one on one with different kids. Sometimes he enjoys playing cars or today it was marbles.

I walked through my 2nd tour today with DJ. He's showing me how to give a tour when groups come down for a visit. I've been asked a few times about how we like being here as a family. I tell them that we're enjoying it very much. My hope is that others will see what were doing and see that it's not impossible. If God asks you to do something He will always make a way. We just have to be willing.

This evening we attended our 2nd quincenera. It was held down the road at a place called Eve's Garden. It's a beautiful place with gardens, gazebos, ponds, and tropical plants. On the propery there's about 6 to 8 houses for rent. Neat place for kids to explore.

After we arrived home, my new amigo Leonardo came and hugged me and said "Buenas noches. Hasta manana." As he started to leave he ran back, gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek and said again "Hasta manana." That moment made me feel great. If I can touch the heart of these kids down here, then I have had success. What a great way for me to end a day. No regrets.

God's Love is Extravagant!

Today, I witnessed the most beautiful thing. I saw God's love poured out on the kids from the orphanage in a way I never could have imagined. An individual that loves God and has been blessed financially through over 100 kids a huge beach party just because he could. It wasn't a special day to celebrate. It wasn't earned for good behavior. It wasn't to win them over. It was solely for the purpose of enjoying kids being happy.

We had horse back riding, quads, and para airplane rides over the beach. The resort on the beach had a jump house, jousting, and two types of water slides. Then there were the two pools and hot tub available and tennis. There was soda, popcorn, pizza, popcorn,candy, and chips to eat. All of this was provided just because someone gets a kick out of being generous. Then, if that wasn't enough, the evening ended with a fireworks presentation. It was great to hear the kids yell out "por DJ, por Mexico" or "por mi" as the fireworks shot up in the sky.

As I took in all this generousity, all I could think about was how some would think it was foolish to spend money that way. So many other good things could have come from the amount of money that had to have been spent today. Yet, I couldn't get passed the thought that Jesus may have done the very same thing if the occasion was for kids. What I saw today was priceless. It's just like the Lord to take a hard situation, like being placed in an oprhanage and turn it all around and allow these kids to experience fun and laughter with seemingly no limits.

It challenges me as a parent to bless my kids with something or someplace and say to them "Just because I love you." I tell my kids all the time that they can't earn God's love or blessing, and yet how often do I do something just out of love and not them having to earn it. The Bible is clear that God does not treat us as our sins make us deserve. I am so thankful that God loves me just because He wants to; nothing more and nothing less.

The Passing of Our Good Friend Buddy

It's been a difficult few days. Last Friday as we were visiting with the team from GVCC, I was called outside to find our dear Buddy (David's dog of 8 years) lying on the ground not able to move. He had been chained in the front of our house and a truck drove over his chain and apparently pulled so hard that his neck was fractured in two places.

DJ offered the services of a vet in Rosarito, so we drove him there through much fog and winding roads. The vet gave Buddy some pain killers and a tranquilizer. We had to bring him back the next day for xrays. After we saw clearly how badly he was hurt and the pain he was in we knew he had to be put down. Needless to say, Saturday was one of the hardest days we've had as a family in a long time.

Saturday, David didn't do much visiting with our GVCC Family. He was too sad. But our friends did pray for him before we left for the vet and he did want to see the guys from Green Valley just after we returned with the sad news. As a Mom, I was so grateful to have the guys from church available for David. Again I was reminded that God is never surprised or caught off guard. He knew we would need our church family to get us through a very difficult time.

On Sunday, we all went to church services in a small church in Ensenda. It was so far out that I was surprised to see the people attending. Most of them had to walk to get there. When I arrived, my GVCC family was pointing at me and saying something to the pastor about me. The next thing I knew I was being asked to play the keyboard for their service. I was delighted to help out. Brian DeCamp joined me on guitar. It seemed that by the time the service was over, Brian and I had not only served to accompany the worship leader, but we had become an illustration for the pastor's sermon. He talked how every week he comes and sees the keyboard, the guitar, the bass and the drums sitting on the platform with no one to play them. He challenged the congregation to service with the gifts God had given them and talked about the gift of service. While I was sitting in the service all I could think about was how God never wastes anything. The songs that we played I had learned the words to either when I was a little girl or in our KSA at church when it had a Spanish theme. God is so good.

Today, our friends from church left. It was hard to see them go, but I'm so confident that I will keep seeing them throughout are stay here that it made it a little easier. Never have I had friends before that are so given over to serve. It is amazing. They smile and laugh as they work themselves close to exhaustion. Their strength so clearly comes from the joy of knowing Jesus. Even with all the hard physical work they did at Casa de Maria they came bringing gifts of things I needed so much. They even painted my bedroom and fixed my shower faucet!

Yes, GVCC has a way about them that makes people scratch their head and say "What is with these people, that they keep giving and serving. And why are they so happy about it anyhow? What's up with that?" I am look forward to hearing the good things that are still to come from their example of what it means to love God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your STRENGTH.

What a diverse weekend. What an amazing God we serve.

Learning the "Ins and Outs" of Running Errands

Today I tagged along with Lynette and Lauren as we ran errands in Mexico as well as in the states. Learned a lot about the rules of the road including those primarily for Americans. I also learned that there are places I need to stop even when the stop sign has been missing for years.

We went to a few post offices to pick up mail, shopping at Target and Costco. We purchased personal items as well as items for the orphanage. The primary reason however, was to pick up one of the orphanage vans that had been repaired.

I learned that you need to divide up the things that you purchase because of how much is allowed per driver. Even if you're bringing things for children in an orphanage you still have to do things a certain way. Orphanages are no exception.

I learned that 15 passenger vans are almost always automatically pulled over to be checked out. I learned that pray is the way to handle every situation that arises.

My friends from church came down for the weekend to do work at Casa de Maria. I've only been here about a week , but it's great to see them.

Breakfast Anyone?

This morning I got up at 4:30am (for those of you who know me well, I have to be pretty excited about something to get up that early). At 5am I was off to Tijuana to help serve breakfast to about 82 children. These precious kids live in shacks on top of what used to be a dump. They come to the church dressed in their uniforms that they are required to have or they can't go to school. They well mannered and appreciative. Some bring their baby siblings and make sure that they have breakfast and some families even come. Nothing is required of them. It's just encouragement to keep in school and to let them know that God sees them and cares deeply for them.

I learned today it takes about $50 a day to feed all of these kids. Today they had milk, beans, corn tortillas, and eggs with hotdogs. I'm told they couldn't serve them breakfast for about 2 weeks because there was no money coming in to support the purchase of food. It's not for a lack of help, it's only a lack of funds.

I also spent part of the day teaching some rhythm to the children. The biggest turn out for participation is about age 5 - 8. It's a lot of fun. They call me Maestra (teacher) or Miga (short for Amiga). It's hard to get them to stop chanting my name so I can teach them. Surprisingly, some of the most active boys can be attentive when they are involved with music.

In my devotions today, I found it interesting how God continues to get me to try and focus on what His will is for me in the moment. I leave you with this quote from my favorite author "Oswald Chambers". "the goal of the missionary is to do God's will, not to be useful or to win the lost. a missionary is useful and he does win the lost, but that is not his goal. His goal is to do the will of his Lord."

Brother Can You Spare a Gift Card?

Yesterday hung out with Lauren and Jarilyn (our new neighbors). They took me out on the town to a Farmer's Market/ Flea Market. Picked up some fresh fruit and veggies. Then it was off to Walmart to see how they shop for the Orphanage. I was able to pick up a few things for our home. Funny going to a store looking for items when everything's in Spanish. I had great appreciation for name brands that I recognized to help me find what I was looking for.

The trip there was interesting. Beware of people making left turns from the far right lane! Saw some horses being used for transportation.

Later we discovered that the chickens here are "muy grande". When they go up in a tree they just might bring the tree down if enough of them get up there. Goats were also in on the fun. They decided that the thatched roof of the chicken house looked good enough to eat. Unfortunately, the roof wasn't strong enough to hold the goats. You can picture the rest.

Finished stuffing envelopes for outgoing mail last night. The boys were a big help. It reminded me to be thankful as we stuffed envelopes for people that support the orphanage. It also reminded me that Costco and Walmart gift cards are great gifts to send to the orphanage. Next time you're at either place why not send a gift card? They really go a long ways here. Every bit helps.

Door of Faith Orphanage
PO Box 6434
Chula Vista Ca 91909

This is also were you can write to the boys and me.

Heard we're getting a couple of babies sometime today. Please pray for the children here. They've endured more than most of us would ever imagine. With God's love being shown to them they are being changed forever!

First Sunday with our New "Familia de Iglesia"

Went to our first all Spanish church service. Usually there will probably be an interpreter for Spanish when DJ is speaking, but today the Spanish speaking Pastor spoke. Lynette kindly sat beside me and interpreted.

The Bible verses were projected on a screen in Spanish and fortunately my friend Helen Mangan gave me a Bilingual Bible as a gift for our adventure. Sure was nice to have this morning. The songs were also on the screen in Spanish. I recognized a few of the choruses from my home church in Watsonville. That was nice also.

I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit. His presence can be know no matter what language is being spoken or sung.

We Are Here! We Are Here!

Wow! I can hardly believe it but our dream is coming true! I am typing this while on the campus of Door of Faith Orphange.

Before we left my Mom's in La Mirada this morning, I had the pleasure of seeing Mr. and Mrs. Hengler. Mr. Hengler had been my high school Spanish teacher and he and his wife and been my neighbors while growing up in La Mirada. I had to see them to thank them for their influence in my life as a child and young adult. When I was a child I collected food with his daughter Laura for an orphanage in Mexico. The Hengler family would then take all the food they collected and would take it to an orphanage in Mexico. Recently, I discovered that the food I had collected with my friend Laura had been taken to Door of Faith Orphanage. Once again I was reminded that we often forget how our influence in the life of a child can change an attitude, perception or world view forever. Even then, though I didn't know it at the time, I was learning that we are blessed to bless others.

We left my my Mom's around 9am. Our van was packed so full that I couldn't see out the back. We arrived at the orphanage about 1pm. Cruise control almost the entire way to the boarder. Crossing over was a breeze and everyone is adjusting fine.

We already had our first visitors to our new place; Hector, Maribelle and their two kids Nadine and Jr. It's always great to see more family. The boys went on a small hike up to "the cross". They took our dogs. When they returned, Suzie, our small dog came home with some large thorns in her paw. We were so grateful for Nadine. She quickly pulled them out while Suzie was in much pain. In just moments Suzie was fine and we so appreciate Nadie coming to our dogs rescue. It makes the transition a little easier when you have some visit.

We had tomales tonight. What a treat! some of the kids were away off campus swimming so it wasn't a full house. I think that's why those of us that remained had tomales. Anyway, when I bit into my tomale I thought it had chicken with carrots and greenbeans. Surpise! It was chicken, carrots and jalipenos! Muy caliente!

Looking forward to church services with our new church family while we're here. It's great to meet more brothers and sisters we never new we had!

In Transition

We arrived in La Mirada, Ca. yesterday courtesy of Enterprise. (We rented a van.) Working on the tuning up the next van God provided through my brother. (Changed oil, filters, windshield wipers and checked tires.) Transformed the appearance of the new vehicle. (Had the van washed and cleaned up on the inside.)

Homeschooling has been difficult. It is in the 80's and 90's here with very little breeze. Also still working on getting my netbook running. I'm not able to get on the internet yet. All in time.

Lord willing, we will leave for Door of Faith Saturday morning!

It's Really Going to Happen!

What a busy day of prep. Still learning to trust God in every detail. Still need Dog license tags to come in, dog exam tomorrow, rent a van to get to the next one God has miraculously provided and who knows what else. It's all good. It's just a lot of good:)

Getting Mexico insurance for next vehicle, packing for a year, gathering email addresses and trying to find out who has AT&T cell phone service amongst all my Verizon friends.

All knew endeavors, all coming together in the LORD's timing. Got to remember that.

"For I know the plans I have for you...."

What It Means to Be Blessed

Today as I looked through my Bible I found a communication card that I never turned to the ushers on Sunday. I'm pretty good at forgetting to turn the cards in, but many times they stay in my Bible with something written that was on my heart that day.

As we draw closer to the day we actually leave for Door of Faith Orphanage, I would like to leave you with my thoughts that I jotted down on my communication card dated March 28, 2009.

"I am blessed; not because I have a nice house, a car, or even my health. I am not blessed because I have a job. I am blessed because I've heard the gospel freely, easily and at a young age so I could have the joy of knowing Jesus most of my life."

"And I pray that you, being rooted together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17-19

Let's never take for granted the blessing of hearing the good news.

Blessed....to bless others.

Robin,
Great, looking forward to having you all get down and settled in. (I have a list of projects for you...)
The challenges you've been facing are normal - everyone who steps out for God goes through attacks, everyone here has their own stories - we need to remember that we've already won. What we do here matters, we're being use to touch lives in ways we don't know - it's worth it.

DJ

Discipling Your Children for Missions

"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." John 13:15-17

Usually, when thinking of this verse, I remember the humble act of Jesus washing the disciples feet. Today I am struck by the thought of the example to His disciples by deed and not by words alone. Knowing that my kids are my disciples, makes me choose how I serve, how I respond to others (when being treated like a servant) and to take initiative to serve. Am I showing them how to serve or telling how they should serve?

Growing up in a family where Christ was at the center, I can give many examples of my parents serving others and can think of none of being told to serve others. From giving of their time and money to gathering the family to drop everything to join together in prayer for a phoned in prayer request; my mind is flooded with countless examples of service.

My hope and prayer as we prepare to go to Door of Faith Orphanage is that my kids will someday go on mission with their families. I hope that I can leave them the legacy that my parents have left me. "Follow me as I follow Christ."

Perhaps the saying "Actions speak louder than words." originated with Jesus washing His disciples feet.

Yes, We're Still in the States

We had planned to be at Door of Faith Orphanage by now, however God had other plans. Tyler came down with the Chicken Pox last week, so we are postponed until next week when he will be ready to travel. God is definitely ordering ordering our steps. "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9

It exciting to watch God take care of every detail as we prepare to leave on our adventure.

Just made my first blog! Hoping to leave for Mexico next week.